At the airport, a friend met us with a hesitant pause when we shared our destination. ‘That’s not the right Italian city,’ came his caution. ‘Choose Rome or Naples, but not Milan,’ he urged. ‘Milan is far too highbrow!’

Nevertheless, we persisted. And how mistaken he was.

From the sleek outskirts to the heart of history, Milan unfolded beyond expensive labels and slender models. Certainly, they exist, but Milan adores itself, its people too. Milanese souls revel in expression, each a portrait of uniqueness that often gave us pause. From progressive punks, vibrant queers, and rhythm-bound hip-hop aficionados to the self-assured fashionistas who strutted the streets as if on a runway, and even the elderly gentlemen in their gleaming suits, everyone claimed the city as their own.

And not a trace of disdain in sight. Each encounter warmed, welcoming, and genuine.

‘Where are you from?’ asked an elder, savoring a cigarette by a fishery. He paused his banter with spouse and friends, making a moment ours. ‘Denmark,’ we answered. ‘Such beauty! Such souls!’ he candidly praised.

Indeed, sir. Indeed."